MAILING LIST

One of my foundation’s beneficiaries, SPARC (School Of Performing Arts in the Richmond Community) recently produced and directed LIVE ART, a 20-week educational program for students with and without special needs, culminating in a major public concert featuring children of all abilities and prominent Virginia musicians. I was an artistic adviser and appeared live with the ensemble at the final performance held in June, 2012 at Richmond’s beautiful Carpenter Theater.

Standing in the wings that evening awaiting my cues, I saw my life barely changed from when I was their age. It has always been my greatest joy to be onstage, in costume, a part of something bigger than I, for the simple act of entertaining, educating or inspiring others. I bowed to my inner child that night, for never growing up or burning out.

SPARC was my introduction to improvisation and performance 30 years ago. If I could credit a handful of people who turned on my light, I’d name them. LIVE ART carries the torch as an all-inclusive program, highlighting talent of every variety, giving many their first chance to shine onstage. Bravo to SPARC for continuing to transform lives, onstage and off.

Check out the Live Art Kickstarter Video and if inspired, send them your ray of sunshine to help reach their goal of releasing a documentary of the inaugural LIVE ART program. I feel the film will educate and enlighten other families and communities in creating projects of a similar compassionate nature.

Jason, what a great concept. I’m going to pass this link along. My husband’s cousin has a film production and development company committed to advancing independent films. He also has a foundation dedicated to the advancement of children, so who knows? He just might want to get behind this. Very cool concept.

I’ve been meaning to reply to your last several posts, so here goes: Frank D. Fixer. I think this song really gets to the heart of how guys perceive their fathers, grandfathers. It is my two boys’ favorite song and my husband’s second favorite (Details in the Fabric wins out for him). The four of us will be seeing your performance tomorrow night in Mpls at the Target Center (with our refillable water bottles–yeah Brita!).

As for planting trees and improving communities, keep up the amazing work, Jason! Doesn’t it feel great to get outside and play in the dirt? I’ve been working on some interpretive signage for stormwater management practices at a local mall. As part of the project, they’ve planted over 200 trees directly into the parking lot, using a Swedish tree trench technique (yes, it’s really called that), which plants the trees in a mixture of crushed granite and soil. The trees actually thrive in this environment. Just when you think the world is going to hell in a handbasket, it’s nice to learn about a project like this one. And it’s nice to hear about the REVERB organization that you’re working with. Thanks for opening my eyes to their efforts. Inspirational, indeed.

Okay, time to wrap this up. Safe travels to you, your band, and crew. Have FUN and see you in Mpls tomorrow night. It’s our kids first real concert (they’re 10 and 8). Can’t wait to see their reactions.

Oh, tell Christina (Perri, of course) that I start piano lessons on Monday, all inspired by her Jar of Hearts. That song tipped me over the edge. xoxo

Seeing you take the time to support, to participate in, and to draw attention to a program as special as LIVE ART, makes me super proud to be your fan. You are A-W-E-S-O-M-E and so is LIVE ART! Anyone that views, shares, or supports this Kickstarter is too. Loved the snip-it in the video of you with the kids!!! xo